Today, the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund announced is July round of endorsements – our candidates represent all geographic regions of the country and bring inceredible amounts of diversity to the table.
EAST:
Frank Ferri – Lt Governor, Rhode Island
“Frank Ferri has been a strong advocate for small business and job creation in Rhode Island,” said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. “His commitment and dedication to Rhode Island residents will serve him well as Lieutenant Governor”
Scott Simpson – State Board of Education, Ward One, District of Columbia
“Scott Simpson has been a passionate advocate for District schools and understands the challenges they face,” said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. “He brings the experience and dedication necessary to help the District of Columbia Public Schools deliver a more quality education that our children deserve.”
Joe Smith – Harford County Council, Maryland
“Councilman Joseph Smith has been a strong advocate for public safety and education for Havre de Grace’s residents,” said Torey Carter, managing director of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. “I have no doubt that he will continue to be an advocate for his community if elected to the Harford County Council.”
Courtney Snowden – Washington, D.C. City Council, At-Large
“As a native Washingtonian, Courtney Snowden has been a staunch advocate for students and education from the start,” said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. “Her commitment to creating a city of integrity and transparency will be a tremendous asset on the City Council.”
WEST:
Catherine Begaye – State Representative, New Mexico
“Catherine Begaye has been a fearless advocate for New Mexico families by making sure that quality education is provided to all children,” said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. “As a lifelong New Mexican she knows her constituents and will represent her community well in the state legislature.”
Daneya Esgar – House of Representatives District 46, Colorado
“As a community organizer, Daneya Esgar has been a strong advocate for affordable healthcare, immigration reform and putting an end to predatory lending,” said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. “Her grasp of the unique issues that face Pueblo will serve her well in the State House.”
Steve Gallardo – Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, Arizona
“Steve Gallardo is a fourth generation Arizonan that understands the importance of connecting with his constituents,” said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO at the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. “His extensive leadership in the Arizona legislature will undoubtedly serve Maricopa County well.”
Rebecca Kaplan – Mayor of Oakland, California
“As an elected official in Oakland, Rebecca Kaplan has been a strong leader and driving force behind making Oakland a safer and more prosperous city, “said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. “I have no doubt she will continue to be an unwavering advocate for the people of Oakland as mayor.”
SOUTH:
John Arrowood – State Court of Appeals, North Carolina
“John Arrowood has been a strong advocate for the LGBT community who has demonstrated his ability to serve North Carolina well,” said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. “His experience and excellent reputation in the legal community make him an ideal candidate to serve on the North Carolina Court of Appeals.”
Paula Sophia – House of Representatives District 88, Oklahoma
“Paula Sophia’s experience as a police officer in Oklahoma City provides her with a unique perspective on the issues facing District 88,” said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO at the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. “It is crucial that her community has an advocate that represents them authentically in the State House.”
INCUMBENTS:
- Denise Andrews – State Representative, Massachusetts
- Toni Atkins – State Assembly District 78, California
- Jim Moeller – House of Representatives District 49, Washington
- Matt Moonen – State Representative, Maine
- William Hanauer – Mayor, Ossining, New York
- Gary Resnick – Mayor of Wilton Manors, Florida
